ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

A receptacle controlled by a wall switch is considered to be equivalent to the required lighting outlet when installed in other than ______________.

1. living rooms

2. bedrooms

3. kitchens and bathrooms

4. hallways

The correct answer is: kitchens and bathrooms

A receptacle controlled by a wall switch is considered equivalent to the required lighting outlet in various locations within a dwelling, which helps to provide convenience and functional lighting. However, in certain areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, specific requirements exist due to the unique circumstances and safety considerations involved. In kitchens, the National Electrical Code (NEC) emphasizes the need for dedicated circuits for both receptacles and lighting due to the higher likelihood of using appliances that can draw significant power. Moreover, kitchens often require specifically placed outlets for countertop appliances, which must remain accessible and functional in accordance with safety standards. Similarly, bathrooms are subject to strict regulations to ensure safety in areas where water is present. The NEC stipulates that lighting in bathrooms must meet specific requirements regarding moisture and electrical safety. Therefore, having just a switched receptacle does not adequately fulfill the lighting requirements due to the unique hazards present in these environments. In contrast, other areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways typically do not have the same stringent safety requirements influenced by water and heavy appliance usage, making it acceptable to consider a receptacle controlled by a switch as meeting the lighting outlet requirement there. This flexibility aims to improve accessibility and convenience for the occupants in those spaces.